Manchester City are hunting back-to-back Carabao Cups and host Norwich City on the first step of their title defense in the third round this Thursday.
The Cityzens won their ninth trophy in this competition last season, after conquering Arsenal in March’s final, and they can move level with current record champions Liverpool by clinching the it again this season. For Enzo Maresca, it provides a first shot at major silverware.
The Italian has overseen a perfect start to the competitive season following a disastrous Community Shield performance, with five straight wins secured across the Premier League and Champions League. Controversy engulfed their most recent victory, however, as Erling Haaland’s strike, which should have been ruled out for offside, earned a 10-man Manchester derby triumph.
Things should prove less contentious against Norwich, who are currently 14th in the EFL Championship after seven outings. Currently under the guidance of Philippe Clement, the Canaries will need an absolute miracle to make it into the fourth round.
This contest should prove, well, no contest at all.
One would be brave to bet against a high-scoring victory for City, who have the squad depth to rotate and still demolish their second-tier visitors. While not all of their performances have been particularly sharp this season, they should strut their stuff against limited opposition.
Norwich’s main issue this season is their defense, with 13 goals conceded in the league so far. They allowed four at Middlesbrough last time out and are yet to keep a clean sheet in any competition, which spells significant trouble heading to the Etihad Stadium.
Of course, City can’t afford any complacency as they look to book their ticket to the fourth round, but they’re unlikely to be shown much resistance by Clement’s men.